Laura Neiswander - November 13,1896 - January 31,1974
Laura Neiswander applied for a position at KU in 1923. She began working at KU in Spooner Library and moved with her colleagues in 1924 to the new Watson Library. Her career would span over 40 years.
Laura worked alongside Mary Maude Smelser from 1912 until Smelser’s retirement in 1953.
Laura received a letter from James Gunn, in May 1965 regarding her plans to retire. Gunn wrote, “We all appreciate your contributions over the years to the University and your dedication to the Historical collections in the Kansas Room. In your hands, we knew the collection had a friend and protector.”
Left: Laura Neiswander, undated (Call Number: 41/0 Photographs).
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"Nice Gal of the Week - Keeper of Kansas Room"
Neiswander spent a few years as a cataloger in the Detroit Public Library. Longing for her home and sunshine, Neiswander returned to Kansas. She states in the article, “I guess I’m just a small-town Kansas girl at heart. The sun didn’t shine enough in Detroit.”
When Neiswander returned to Kansas, she began working at KU Libraries as a cataloger. She was remembered for her politeness and helpfulness to all the curious that find themselves in the ‘tucked away’ Kansas Room.
Left: University Daily Kansan, November 15, 1957 (Call Number: UA Ser 69.2).